The top-ranked Panthers have had a bevy of stars in the past few seasons. Coming off a national runner-up season, they entered the year with lofty expectations.

Replacing a pair of All-Americans is never easy, but having an incoming guard like Kaylen Evans is a treat.

The former Nazareth Roadrunner entered the final days of January with 19.4 points per game and 68 made 3-pointers on the season.

She trails her teammate Claire Hyde for the national lead in made 3-pointers and has enjoyed playing for a program that has been dominant the past few seasons.

"Being ranked No. 1 and unbeaten pushes us more and is very encouraging to see that the sky is the limit for us. It helps that our hard work pays off on the days we may not be as motivated or feel 100%. Those hard days where we push through are worth it," Evans said.

The Panthers are averaging the most made 3-pointers in the NJCAA DII ranks, and Evans has been sensational. Her ability to attack the basket and create for her teammates is unlike any other competitor at the JUCO level. 

The ability that the Panthers have shown allows a star guard like Evans to connect on several open looks throughout games. Jalyssa Carrasco and Hyde have ranked among the top shooters this season, with Evans right there. Whether it is assisting on the big shot or making it, the Panthers are in good hands with Evans. 

"Honestly, being ranked near the top in threes with a pair of my teammates is very exciting. I would shoot outside for hours in the summer and focus on my shot so it could be more consistent for this season. I am glad to see the hard work paying off. I am so happy for Jelly and Claire. They are always working so hard and getting up extra shots. There is no surprise that they are also high on the list. All three of us trust each other in taking a big shot, so we are never afraid of moving the ball to get each other an open shot," Evans said.

Dylan Van Fleet and Tadriana Heard were both All-Americans last season. The experience Evans had playing with Heard convinced her to join the Panthers. 

"I think I helped fill in the scoring role that the team had with Tadri last year. Tadri and I are very close, from playing on the same travel team (Example Sports), so seeing her role on the team inspired me to try and fill that position the best I can. She was a large part of the success last year, so I felt the need to fill the void this year," Evans said.

Defending Evans is quite the challenge that most defenders are still trying to figure out. The ability to slice a defense apart has been flawless. Taking the higher percentage shot and showing athletic skills can stress out opposing defenses, and Evans has enjoyed it all. 

"I enjoy dissecting defenses and getting to the rim for and ones. I love getting to the basket a lot more because it takes a different level of athleticism to get around your defender and finish through contact. One thing that boosts my confidence is sometimes the shots may not always fall, but you can always find a way to get to the rim," Evans said.

Facing adversity is something that every player and team goes through during seasons. Reaching Port Huron and having a chance to play at Nationals would be another dream come true for the Panthers. Battling and fighting that adversity has been what has kept Evans playing dominant basketball.

"There has been a lot of adversity throughout my career, so I think my success has been a mindset because I have a lot of people to prove wrong. I have been through many things mentally behind the scenes. This season has been my biggest motivation. I want to prove everyone wrong that has been doubting me. My parents have always taught me to play with a chip on my shoulder. Proving others wrong influences me to play my best," Evans said.

To love the game of basketball and continue pushing can test all athletes. Baseball has the dog days of summer, and injuries are certainly part of the game. The mental aspect can take a toll, but Evans is wise beyond her years and is looking at the bigger picture.

"The season has been a true grind. Though our practices may not always be perfect, we learn from each other to keep focus by holding each other accountable. We are a team that is very diligent in working hard. Before games, we all come together and do what is needed, listening to music, praying, etc. Most of us get up shots at some point before the game, either in the morning or before warm-ups. We as a team take a lot of shots and will get as many reps as possible," Evans said.

The Panthers have been fortunate to have Evans at their disposal. The top-ranked team has been lighting up the scoreboard with its offensive firepower, and the tenacious defense has stifled the opposition. Evans has been a vital part of the success and will continue to flourish as the postseason inches closer. 

For more featured stories, follow us on Twitter and check out GoMCPanthers.com. For continued coverage, every step for the top-ranked Panthers as Kaylen Evans and her teammates take their path to Port Huron.